Spain Beat Uruguay 1-0 to Clinch World Cup Group H Top Spot
Spain secured first place in Group H with a 1-0 victory over Uruguay, as goalkeeper Fernando Muslera's mistake sent the two-time champions home.
Spain defeated Uruguay 1-0 in Guadalajara on Saturday to top Group H, thanks to a costly error from Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera. Alex Baena's weak shot slipped through Muslera's grasp in the 42nd minute, giving Spain the only goal of the match.
Muslera, a hero of Uruguay's 2010 semifinal run, had already been at fault for both goals in a 2-2 draw with Cape Verde. This time, his blunder eliminated Uruguay, who finished third in the group. Cape Verde advanced to the round of 32 after a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia, setting up a clash with defending champions Argentina.
Uruguay's tournament was marred by internal turmoil, with reports of a revolt against coach Marcelo Bielsa led by players including Federico Valverde. Bielsa's decision to substitute Valverde in the 60th minute added to the tension. Additionally, midfielder Manuel Ugarte was stretchered off with a serious knee injury just before halftime.
Spain's attack looked labored despite the return of Lamine Yamal, who had sparked a 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia. Though Spain remains unbeaten in 34 competitive matches and has yet to concede a goal in the tournament, their performances have been less impressive than other favorites. Spain will next face Austria or Algeria in Los Angeles.
